DJ Smith was an impact transfer at Robert Morris last season, averaging 9.1 ppg and 3.2 apg in 32 starts, shooting 39% from three-point range. Smith, a 6’0 ball-handler from Little Rock, Arkansas, had originally committed to Mercer this offseason. However, he opted to de-commit and re-enter the transfer portal, where a new batch of teams are showing interest.
Which of the programs makes the most sense for Smith on paper? Here’s a closer look at how he’d fit with them,
Campbell Fighting Camels
The Camels finished in the middle of the CAA this past season and had to replace their top players, including 6’7 forward Nolan Dorsey. The team does bring back Cam Gregory in the backcourt and landed Green Bay transfer Jeremiah Johnson. Smith wouldn’t be guaranteed to start, but he’d definitely be part of the rotation for a potential conference darkhorse.
Miami Hurricanes
Miami's starting backcourt is set with incoming transfers Tre Donaldson and Tru Washington. The perimeter behind them is a question, with Georgia transfer Jordyn Kee and four-star freshman Dante Allen unproven. While moving up to the ACC would definitely be a risk for Smith, there’s a clear path to being a third or fourth guard in the Hurricanes' rotation.
Seton Hall Pirates
Seton Hall has had to start over with its roster, landing several guards with some high-level experience. Merrimack transfer Adam Clark will lead, while AJ Staton-McCray, Elijah Fisher, and TJ Simpkins are all capable ball-handlers. Even if the Pirates opt to use three-guard lineups, Smith would be take a risk being buried in the depth chart compared to even Miami.
Southeast Louisiana Lions
After finishing in the top 4 of the Southland, SELA also had to replace its top guards. Smith would fill this spot as a lead guard and potential go-to option. It’s easily the safest among the new options in terms of potential playing time and with McNeese State losing Will Wade, the top of the conference is wide open for a team like the Lions, especially if they were to get Smith, to make move up.